Ina Jean Pharis
Born on August 15, 1938 in Wildwood, FloridaDeparted October 25, 2023 in Melbourne, Florida
Ina Jean Pharis was born August 15, 1938 in Wildwood, FL. She went to be with the Lord on October 25, 2023 at the age of 85. For almost 65 years, Ina was happily married to her husband, Julian Pharis, classmate and friend since third grade. She served as financial secretary at First Baptist Church of Melbourne for 26 years until her retirement in 2005. Since 1958, Ina was very involved as a member of First Baptist Church of Melbourne. In addition to her administrative employment, she regularly attended Sunday School classes, taught GAs, helped at Vacation Bible School and was a member of quilting ministry, Patchwork of Grace. Her love for the Lord was evident through everything she did, including her generosity, kindness and the way she loved all others. Outside of church and family, one of Ina’s biggest passions was quilting. You could find her in her sewing room most days. She loved to share her handmade quilts and sewing knowledge with those she loved. Ina and Julian took trips for almost 40 years to the Smokey Mountains where they loved to enjoy the fall colors and mountain air together.
Ina was preceded in death by her parents Elmore and Ina Lee Phillips of Wildwood, FL and infant granddaughter Callie Pharis. Ina is survived by her beloved husband Julian Pharis of Palm Bay, FL; brothers Sam Phillips and Ronnie Phillips; sons Pete Pharis and Tom Pharis; daughters-in-law Cindy Pharis and Betsy Pharis; grandchildren Robyn Jackson, Gwyn Wood, Kathryn Rosa, Renee Pharis, Samuel Pharis, and Myla Pharis; and nine great-grandchildren.
A memorial service will be held at First Baptist Church of Melbourne on Monday, November 27 at 2pm. This date would be the celebration of 65 years of marriage for Julian and Ina. She will be laid to rest at the First Baptist Church Memorial Garden. Those wishing to make donations in Ina’s name can do so to the First Baptist Church of Melbourne Greater Things building fund.